Clinical observations on postoperative vomiting treated by auricular acupuncture

Area of Science:

• Integrative Medicine
• Surgical Recovery
• Acupuncture Research

Background:

• Postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) is a common complication after surgical procedures.
• Transabdominal hysterectomy is associated with a significant risk of PONV.
• Non-pharmacological interventions are sought to manage PONV effectively.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of auricular acupuncture in mitigating postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV).
• To assess the impact of auricular acupuncture on vomiting incidence in female patients undergoing transabdominal hysterectomy.

Main Methods:

• A randomized controlled study involving 100 female patients undergoing transabdominal hysterectomy.
• Patients were divided into two groups: one receiving auricular acupuncture and a control group receiving no treatment.
• Demographic data (age, weight, height) and anesthesia duration were comparable between groups.

Main Results:

• A statistically significant reduction in the incidence of vomiting was observed in the auricular acupuncture group (30%) compared to the control group (68%) within 12 hours post-surgery (p < 0.01).
• No significant differences were noted in patient age, weight, height, or anesthesia duration between the groups.
• The auricular acupuncture treatment was well-tolerated, with no noteworthy adverse effects reported.

Conclusions:

• Auricular acupuncture is an effective intervention for reducing the incidence of vomiting after transabdominal hysterectomy.
• This non-pharmacological approach offers a safe and viable option for managing PONV in surgical patients.
• Further research may explore the long-term effects and broader applications of auricular acupuncture in postoperative care.